Souffian El Karouani is nearing Benfica to revive his European adventure

Monday 31 August 2026 - 09:53

A few weeks after leaving the Netherlands for Saudi Arabia, Souffian El Karouani is already set to change leagues again. The Moroccan international is expected to join Benfica Lisbon on a one-season loan, with a purchase option planned at the end of the 2026/27 season. This move could allow him to quickly return to European football.

A brief stint in Saudi Arabia

Souffian El Karouani's time at Al Qadsiah may ultimately be much shorter than anticipated.

Arriving this summer from FC Utrecht, the 25-year-old left-back has yet to play any official matches with the Saudi club. This situation has facilitated discussions with Benfica, eager to strengthen their left flank.

According to available information, both clubs have reached an agreement for a one-season loan, accompanied by a purchase option that could be activated in June 2027.

Heading to Lisbon for a medical

El Karouani is expected in Lisbon this Monday to undergo medical examinations prior to his commitment.

If this step goes smoothly, the Moroccan defender can finalize his arrival and be officially presented as a Benfica player.

For the player, this transfer primarily represents an opportunity to quickly return to a competitive environment in Europe, as his Saudi experience has not yet truly begun on the pitch.

A remarkable season with Utrecht

Benfica's interest is partly explained by the performances the player delivered during his last season in the Netherlands.

Wearing the colors of FC Utrecht, El Karouani established himself as a particularly active left-back in the offensive sector. He participated in 50 matches across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing 18 assists.

These statistics reflect his influence on the game and helped attract the attention of several European clubs.

His profile, capable of adding depth while contributing to offensive phases, thus constitutes an asset for Benfica.

A new showcase for the Moroccan international

Returning to Portugal could also represent an important step in the player's international career.

At 25, El Karouani still has room for growth and now has an opportunity to compete again in a high-level European league.

However, the challenge will be immediate: to convince his new coach and earn playing time in a squad where competition is expected to be intense.

For Benfica, this loan allows them to strengthen their squad while retaining the option to keep the player permanently in the future.

A new opportunity to seize

Just a few weeks after leaving Utrecht, Souffian El Karouani could already be writing a new chapter in his career.

His arrival at Benfica offers him the chance to quickly get his European trajectory back on track and transform his performances in the Netherlands into a new springboard.

The next steps will depend on his ability to integrate quickly in Lisbon and confirm the qualities that made him one of the most watched Moroccan players in his league last season.